by Linda Thiessen
SILVER WATER—The Western Manitoulin Pastoral Charge annual United Church Women (UCW) Christmas party was a roaring success again this year. The event was hosted by Myra Duncanson, who took over hosting the Christmas party for her mother Ellen Duncanson in 1994 when her mother was not able to continue due to declining health.
In the year 2000 the Christmas event was moved from Myra’s home to the Silver Water Community Centre when the attendance outgrew her home, and the much loved December celebration by UCW and community ladies has continued there to this day.
Thirty-two of the 35 ladies gathered at Stop 540 Restaurant for a lovely lunch of lasagna or mac and cheese, salad and soup. The ladies then moved to the community centre shortly after 1:30 pm where donations to the food bank in Mindemoya were collected at the door from those attending. Generous donations to the food bank are given by the Western Manitoulin Pastoral charge regularly throughout the year.
The ladies and one gentleman, Erwin Thompson who has been a regular attendee over the years, were thrilled by the wonderful songs, poems, stories and hilarious jokes shared by many. As well, a delightful skit called ‘The Christmas Mouse’ was played by Joan VanEvery, Silvia Pfeifr, Ardith Burmaster, Lyne Pickard, Jean Steeves, Lorna Cambria, Peggy Morrison, Erwin Thompson and Elaine Bradley.
Following the entertainment there was a gift exchange, then a silent auction with proceeds going to various charities or special causes. Finally, beverages supplied by volunteers in attendance were heartily enjoyed.
